Defender Uriah Bentick has his sights on earning a call-up to the national senior men’s team this year and will be hoping his exploits with his new club Central FC can strengthen his chances of catching the eye of Stephen Hart.
Bentick played in in the 2009 Under-20 World Cup in Egypt where he lined up against the likes of Kevin Molino, Jamal Gay, Khaleem Hyland, Aubrey David and Sheldon Bateau.
Bentick said his ambition to play for the senior team was one of the main reasons behind him returning home to join the professional ranks.
“I am back in Trinidad to play because I have a strong desire to represent the national senior team. I think being in Trinidad for this period will allow me to play in front of the national team staff more regularly and hopefully better my chances for my first call up to the senior team. Secondly, I like the direction coach Vranes and Mr (Brent) Sancho are heading with Central FC, especially pertaining to the CONCACAF champions league qualification,” Bentick said.
He added that his time in the United States was a definite highlight in his career thus far. He played for Liberty University between 2009 to 2012 and then joined pro teams Wilminghton Hammerheads and Carolina RailHawks.
“My experience in the US was quite good. I was exposed to a high level of football and coaching after finishing college. During my two years in North Carolina I learnt a lot from my US and European coaches, personally I believe I improved on the mental part of my game the most during my time there.”
Bentick is expected to be an integral part of Central’s push for a place in the CONCACAF Champions League this season.